Episode 009: Budgeting in a Frugal Economy

Episode 009 originally broadcast on September 23, 2009

Overtime Breakdown: Week of September 23, 2009

Katie Laird and Esther Steinfeld recap the week’s business news and this week they do it on a budget. Budget retailer Costco is being challenged by a group of employees. Business travelers are trying to cut costs in many ways. AIG’s CEO has been grounded. Sprint’s CEO has a confidence problem. Our Hero of the Week is the underpraised CFO.

Businessmakers Breakdown: September 23, 2009

Esther interviews Dan Bender, senior vice president of wealth manager Johnson, Bender & Co. Bender uses his estate planning expertise to explain aspects of retirement and investment planning, such as taking inventory of assets and considering new limits on the ROTH IRA. Katie interviews Karen Walrond, blogger and photographer extraordinaire at Chookooloonks.com. Walrond talks about the importance of knowing your strengths and weaknesses, and knowing when to hire expertise. (“I am REALLY awful with money!”)

Special Features: Week of September 23, 2009

Many companies are doing business well in a contracting economy. Katie and Esther discuss retailers and websites that continue to compete by offering special deals and guarantees. These companies, some which may surprise you, may be making less per customer, but are making up for it in increased volume. (“McDonald’s stock has ground Starbucks into a fine powder.”)